Cork derby is big attraction of SuperLeague weekend

One of the biggest rivalries in Irish sport takes place this Friday night with UCC Demons entertaining fierce Cork rivals Neptune at the Mardyke Arena in the Nivea For Men’s Superleague.

UCC Demons head coach Douglas Leichner has a full quota to choose from ahead of the visit of Neptune and is relishing his first derby so early in the season.

Leichner’s reign on Leeside got off to a positive start last weekend with an 89-78 win away to Belfast Star and the experienced US coach is looking for more of the same on Friday night.

“I am well aware of the long history between the two clubs,” said Leichner.

“The game will feature some talented local Irish players as well as import players. I am looking forward to being a part of this historic rivalry. This game is great for Cork and basketball in Ireland."

Neptune have a number of injury problems including Tristan Parham, who is struggling with a hamstring injury, while Paul Stapleton (knee) and Gary Walsh (ankle) are definitely ruled out.

Abrakebabra Tigers will be without Micheál Quirke (GAA commitments) but are hoping Kieran Donaghy will be available for Saturday night’s meeting with Belfast Star in Tralee.

Belfast Star got off to a losing start in the league and are sweating over the fitness of Scott Summersgill and Fergal Toner.

DART Killester have been boosted by the signing of Eoin McDermott ahead of their clash with UCD/Marian.

The National Cup champions have secured his signature from Clondalkin Lakers but the club could be without former Neptune star, Kieran O’Brien, who is struggling with a knee injury.

Limerick Lions are at full strength for their first home game of the season against a Hoops side hoping to get off the mark under their recently appointed head coach Ahmad Smith.

UU (Ulster Elks) are at full strength for the game with DCU Saints, who will be without the Lacey brothers (Kevin and Mike) who have travelling commitments, while Joey McGuirk remains a long-term injury absentee.

Meanwhile, the Basketball Ireland Women’s Superleague resumes this weekend amid a huge sense of optimism after a positive international campaign for the Ireland senior women’s team.

Reigning champions Team Montenotte Hotel Cork, coached by Irish senior women’s head coach Mark Scannell, open their defence away to Tolka Rovers.

Nodlaig Cleary and Amanda O’Regan will not be available for selection after their GAA commitments during the summer, while US star Jennifer Strong is hopeful of being available after sitting out training on Tuesday night.

Tolka Rovers, who have a clean bill of health, will be looking to improve on last season’s performances and will look to the experience of Eva Cunningham, a Point Guard from the US.

DCU Mercy enter the season full of confidence after landing a major sponsor in the shape of the Lemongrass restaurant group and have also welcomed a host of new signings.

DART Killester have a number of injury woes with Aisling Sullivan set to miss out after having a small operation in September when she arrived back from a summer of International duty. Leah Truncale, DART Killester’s new American is sidelined after a nasty pre-season injury.

A full-strength Meteors face a tough trip away to Waterford Wildcats, while Cork side Churchfield LeisureWorld Iona make their debut in the top flight and open with a huge clash at home to UL Aughinish.